District 5 Foundation to Hold Community Celebration, Benefit in October

The District 5 Foundation for Educational Excellence will hold its 3rd annual community celebration and benefit on Oct. 3, raising funds aimed at enhancing programs and projects at Lexington-Richland School District Five schools.

Serving as the foundation’s major fundraiser, the event includes food, music and auctions featuring donated items and the artwork of District Five students and teachers. Auction items include pottery, themed rocking chairs, digital prints, handmade jewelry, school t-shirts – even the opportunity to act as principal for a half day.

Foundation President Paula Hite said tickets sales were good this year and artwork by students and teachers are exceptional. “It’s been a great response. We appreciate everyone’s support of the Foundation and this important event,” Hite said.

At District Five schools, students designed auction items and learned lessons on using art to contribute and raise awareness. Dutch Fork High School Art Teacher Blakely Sheely has participated in the fundraising event for all three years, having her 3-D art classes make pottery for the auction.  

“I want the students to experience giving back to the community,” Sheely said. “A lot of them don’t realize that there are kids in need in their own school. Some are slightly oblivious to this. So, I think this creates some awareness and let’s them also learn what it’s like to be an artist and share their work with others.”

All proceeds from the District 5 Foundation Benefit go to enhancing educational opportunities in District Five. Funds raised last year helped to support the district’s musical, the District’s “Backpack” weekend food supply program for students in need, research projects, Lego Robotics teams and other initiatives at schools. 

Tickets for the event are $25 and can be purchased at the foundation’s website at www.district5foundation.org.